Behind the Steel Curtain
These former Steelers have a shot at Canton.
It’s a long, drawn out process to make the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but two former Steelers have taken the next step. The Hall of Fame announced its 2025 modern-era semifinalists, with James Harrison and Hines Ward being two of the 25 names.
Ward is one of the best wide receivers in Steelers history and possibly the greatest blocking receiver to ever do it. He’s logged plenty of accolades: four Pro Bowls, two Super Bowls, and the MVP award from Super Bowl XL. He’s Pittsburgh’s all-time leading receiver with 12,083 receiving yards and 85 receiving touchdowns.
Harrison also had a dominant career: five Pro Bowls, two All-Pros, two Super Bowls, and a Defensive Player of the Year award in 2008. His 80.5 career sacks are the third-most in Steelers history, and he’s had plenty of iconic on-field moments, the most special being his 100-yard pick six in Super Bowl XLIII.
However, Ward and Harrison will have some tough competition, with the 25 semifinalists including names such as Eli Manning, Antonio Gates, Luke Kuechly, Steve Smith Sr., Adam Vinatieri, Darren Woodson, Vince Wilfork, and other legendary NFL players.
You can view the full list here.
The 25 semifinalists will be narrowed down to 15 finalists in December, along with three names from the seniors class, one coach, and one contributor. Of those 20, four to eight will make the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.
Steelers executive Art Rooney Jr. is also still a Hall of Fame candidate. He was named a semifinalist in the contributor class back in October.
